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No.

177 41

THIRD QUARTER,

1939

GOD IN NATURE

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES IN CREATION AND REVELATION

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Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly

GOD IN NATURE

Lesson 1, for July 1, 1939

This diagram for daily lesson study records only. Place a check mark in proper space.

SABBATH

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FRIDAY

In the Beginning God Created

MEMORY VERSE: "By Him were all things .created, that are in heaven, and

that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or

principalities, or powers; all things were created by Him, and for Him; and He is

before all things, and by Him all things consist." Col. 1:16, 17.

STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pp. 44-46, 111-116; "Back to the

Bible," George McCready Price, pp. 133-158.

Introduction

"We need a divine Teacher. In order that the world might not remain in

darkness, in eternal spiritual night, God met us in Jesus Christ. Christ is 'the

true light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.' 'The light

of the knowledge of the glory of God' is revealed 'in the face of Jesus Christ.'

The light of Christ, illuminating our understanding, and shining upon the face

of nature, enables us still to read the lesson of God's love in His created works."

—"Testimonies,"

vol. 8, p. 256.

Creation Reveals Divine Workmanship

What subjects are proper objects of our study? Deut. 29:29.

NoTE.—"All that man needs to know or can know of God has been revealed

in the life and character of His

Son."—"Testimonies,"

vol. 8, p. 286.

"The revelation of Himself that God has given in His word is for our study.

This we may seek to understand. But beyond this we are not to penetrate.

The highest intellect may tax itself until it is wearied out in conjectures regard-

ing the nature of God, but the effort will be fruitless. This problem has not

been given us to solve. No human mind can comprehend God. None are to

indulge in, speculation regarding His nature. Here silence is eloquence. The

Omniscient One is above discussion."—"The

Ministry of Healing,"

p. 429.

What has God told us regarding the origin of all things? Gen. 1:1;

John 1:1-3.

How may this great primary truth be recognized even in lands where

the Bible is not known? Rom. 1:19, 20; Ps. 19:1-3; Job 12:7-9.

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 173, October, 1939. 20 cents a year. Published

in the U. S. A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S. D. A.),

Mountain View, California. Entered as second-class matter Oct. 13, 1904, at the

post office in Mountain View, California, under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879.

Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in section 1103, Act

of Oct. 3, 1917, and authorized Sept. 18, 1918.

[ 3 )

How do we know that God created the very material (called matter)

of which the earth, the sun, and all the rest of the universe is composed?

Col. 1:16; Heb. 11:3.

NoTE.—It was an old pagan notion that the material composing the uni-

verse has always existed. Most systems of philosophy from the time of the

Greeks down even to our own day have taught this pagan doctrine of the eter-

nity of matter. Only in very recent years has physical science felt compelled

to recognize that matter must have been created. "Everything points with

overwhelming force to a definite event, or series of events, of creation at some

time or times, not infinitely remote. The universe cannot have originated by

chance out of its present ingredients, and neither can it have been always the

same as

now."—"Eos,"

p. 55,

Sir James H. Jeans, Secretary of the Royal So-

ciety, London,

1928.

God's Word-Creation's Agent

What method did God

employ in the work of creation? Ps. 33:6, 9;

Ps. 148:5. (Compare "And God said," which is used so frequently in the

first chapter of Genesis.)

NOTE.—"The work of creation can never be explained by science. What

science can explain the mystery of life?

"The theory that God did not create matter when He brought the world

into existence, is without foundation. In the formation of our world, God was

not indebted to pre-existing matter. On the contrary, all things, material or

spiritual, stood up before the Lord Jehovah at His voice, and were created for

His own purpose. The heavens and all the host of them, the earth and all

things therein, are not only the work of His hand: they came into existence

by the breath of His

mouth."—"Testimonies,"

vol. 8, pp. 258, 259.

This is what scholars term a

fiat

creation—the calling into being of things

which were not in existence before. This original creation was literally

nihilo,

or a creation "out of nothing." After this primary creation, then the

record is that "the earth brought forth." But even this was also a true primary

creation; for living things do not now come forth thus out of the earth; all

our modern animals and plants come only from other animals and plants

already. existing. This modern process of origin we call

reproduction;

but,

first of all, the various kinds of plants and animals were really created, though,

like the first man (Gen. 2:7), they are said to have been "formed" out of the

dust of the ground.

Why can we not fully comprehend the work of creation?

ANSWER.—"Just how God accomplished the work of creation He has

never revealed to men; human science cannot search out the secrets of the

Most High. His creative power is as incomprehensible as His existence."—

"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 113.

•

Since man and all the plants and animals were "formed," or "made,"

out of previously existing materials (Gen. 2:19), may we still say that they

were "created"? Gen. 1:27, 21.

NoTE.—The first man, also the first of each kind of animal and of each kind

of plant, were made by methods vastly different from those methods which

God now emplOys to perpetuate or reproduce these forms of life today. (See

"A History of Some Scientific Blunders," chapter IX.) We call the modern

process reproduction by "natural law," while we call the other "creation."

[ 4 I

Both are equally due to the directly exercised power of Jehovah; and while we

moderns sometimes think that we understand "natural law," we are ever in

danger of forgetting the God behind both these natural processes and the pri-

mal process of creation. The record in the Bible is that creation was definitely

completed

at a certain time in the past, and is

not now going on.

The utter

failure of modern biology to show how any living thing can come into exist-

ence either from the inorganic ("spontaneous generation"), or by transform-

ism from some different kind, is the best of proof (if such scientific proof were

needed) that the Bible record of creation is a record of actual fact, not a mere

myth or legend. Because of our modern scientific knowledge, we now know

that only by a real creation can we account for the beginnings of the animals

and plants of our world.

What was the earth like when first created? Gen. 1:2.

NoTE.—The original Hebrew expression which is here translated "without

form, and void" occurs in only one other place throughout the Old Testament,

in Jeremiah 4:23. The Septuagint, which doubtless was made by scholars who

understood the ancient Hebrew far better than any modern scholars, translates

this "invisible and unfurnished." A translation of the Latin Vulgate of Jerome

(cir. 390-404) makes it "void and empty." Thus there is not the slightest inti-

mation either in the original Hebrew or in any of the early versions that the

earth had been peopled with living beings and had been made desolate. Clearly

the meaning is that the earth was at this time still empty arid had not yet been

stocked with plants and animals. Nor is there the slightest scholarly authority

for changing the verb "was" into the verb "became," making the phrase read:

"The earth

became

waste and void." To do so would be to twist the word of

God to fit a fantastic theory which has no scriptural foundation.

The Harmony and Unity of Creation

What evidence have we that "the beginning," of Genesis 1:1, is defi-

nitely a part of the story of creation as recorded in the entire chapter?

Ex. 20:11.

NOTE.—We need to remember that in this present study of creation we are

dealing only with what we term our solar system. But this part of the fourth

commandment says plainly that during these first six days, God made "heaven

and earth, the sea, and all that in them is." This last clause, "all that in them

is," makes it impossible that the fossils and the rocky materials in which we

find them buried can be the relics or ruins of a previous creation. This part of

the fourth commandment forever rules out this "ruin and reconstruction"

theory which is now so widely taught.

10.

In what respects does the order of creation, as given in Genesis 1,

flatly contradict the alleged evolution of plants and animals, as pictured

by the popular geology? Gen. 1:11, 12, 20-22.

NoTE.—In the Genesis record, the land vegetation, even including the fruit

trees, is said to have appeared

before

the marine life of the ocean; the winged

fowl appeared at the same time as the first of the ocean life ; while the "creep-

ing things" (verses 24, 25) appeared only

after

the birds or "winged fowl."

This is all completely out of joint with the order of events as given by evolu-

tionary geology, which makes the creeping things come first. The two can

never be made to fit even moderately well.

11.

After the account of the creation of the various kinds of plants and

)

animals, what is said about the creation of the first man and woman? Gen.

1:26, first part; verse 27.

12.

What is the origin of all the races of mankind? Acts 17:26, first

part.

NoTE.—Less than a hundred years ago, Louis Agassiz and many others were

teaching the multiple origin of the various races of men, saying that this crea-

tion in Genesis has reference only to the origin of the white race. This is now

known to have been one of the many blunders of "science." Obviously, any

departure from the plain, literal interpretation of the Bible record of the first

days of our world is certain to lead us into confusion and gross errors.

13.

What indicates that at the end of time God will again seek to unite

His people from all nations? Matt. 24:14.

Lesson 2—July 8, 1939

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SABBATH I SUNDAY I MONDAY



TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY] THURSDAY

FRIDAY

The Entrance of Sin, Suffering, and Death

MEMORY

VERSE: "The

servants of the householder came and said unto him,

Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then bath it tares? He said

unto them, An enemy hath done this." Matt. 13:27, 28.

STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pp. 46-62; "The Great Contro-

versy,"

pp.

492-499 (new ed., pp. 559-566); "Back to the Bible," pp. 94-104.

Introduction

The most obvious and the most important respect in which the evolution

theory is contrary to the Christian religion is in its denial of the fall of man.

Evolution denies the Bible account of the original sinless condition of man-

kind; and hence it denies the Bible's explanation of sin, suffering, and death.

For this reason it is of the greatest importance that we should know what the

Bible says on these subjects.

The Edenic Home

1. What was the earth like when God finished it? Gen. 1:31, first part.

NOTE.—"As the earth came forth from the hand of its Maker, it was ex-

ceedingly beautiful. Its surface was diversified with mountains, hills, and

plains, interspersed with noble rivers and lovely lakes; but the hills and moun-

tains were not abrupt and rugged, abounding in terrific steeps and frightful

chasms, as they now do; the sharp, ragged edges of earth's rocky framework

were buried beneath the fruitful soil, which everywhere produced a luxuriant

growth of verdure. There were no loathsome swamps nor barren deserts.

Graceful shrubs and delicate flowers greeted the eye at every turn. The heights

were crowned with trees more majestic than any that now exist. The air, un-

tainted by foul miasma, was clear and healthful. The entire landscape outvied

in beauty the decorated grounds of the proudest palace. The angelic host

viewed the scene with delight, and rejoiced at the wonderful works of God."

—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 44.

( 6 )

What place was especially prepared as the bridal home of our first

parents? Gen. 2:8, 9, 15.

NOTE.—"The

home of our first parents was to be a pattern for other homes

as their children should go forth to occupy the earth. . . . In the surround-

ings of the holy pair was a, lesson for all time,—that true happiness is found,

not in the indulgence of pride and luxury, but in communion with God through

His created works. If men would give less attention to the artificial, and would

cultivate greater simplicity, they would come far nearer to answering the pur-

pose of God in their creation. Pride and ambition are never satisfied, but those

who are truly

wise

will find substantial and elevating pleasure in the sources

of enjoyment that God has placed within the reach of

all."—"Patriarchs and

Prophets,"

pp. 49, 50.

What was to be man's occupation? Verse 15.

NorE.—"To the dwellers in Eden was committed the care of the garden,

`to dress it and to keep it' Their occupation was not wearisome, but pleasant

and invigorating. God appointed labor as a blessing to man, to occupy his

mind, to strengthen his body, and to develop his faculties. In mental and phys-

ical activity, Adam found one of the highest pleasures of his holy existence.

And when, as a result of his disobedience, he was driven from his beautiful

home, and forced to struggle with a stubborn soil to gain his daily bread, that

very labor, although widely different from his pleasant occupation in the gar-

den, was a safeguard against temptation, and a source of happiness. Those

who regard work as a curse, attended though it be with weariness and pain,

are cherishing an error. The rich often look down with contempt upon the

working classes; but this is wholly at variance with God's purpose in creating

man. What are the possessions of even the most wealthy, in comparison with

the heritage given to the lordly Adam? Yet Adam was not to be idle. Our

Creator, who understands what is for man's happiness, appointed Adam his

work. The true joy of life is found only by the working men and women. The

angels are diligent workers; they are the ministers of God to the children of

men. The Creator has prepared no place for the stagnating practice of

indo-

lence."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 50.

What was provided as man's food? Gen. 1:29.

What kind of food was provided for the animals? Verse 30.

Nors.—It is not necessary to suppose that the original food of such animals

as the lion, the vulture, the serpent, and the anteater was that upon which they

now subsist. It has been found that at times, even now, almost every flesh-

eating animal likes to eat some form of vegetable food. All carnivorous ani-

mals seem to require more protein food that they can readily obtain from the

ordinary vegetable foods. We may conclude that back in the earth's primitive

condition, before the Flood destroyed the original stock of plants and the earth

lost its mild springlike climate,

every type of animal had some particular form

of plant food on which it lived. But the beasts were affected by the curse as

was man, and following the Flood, the instincts of the animal world, influenced

by the effects of the curse, became increasingly bloodthirsty. The Flood also

left them as it did man without their normal food, resulting in the more wide-

spread devouring of other animals for food. But with the "restitution of all

things" (Acts 3:21), the instincts of the animals will again be like those in the

Edenic world when God pronounced everything "very good." Isa. 11: 6-9 ;

65:25.

]

Sin Destroys Man's Perfect Estate

What conditions now prevailing were brought about by the entrance

of sin? Matt. 13:27, 28, first part; Gen. 3:17-19.

How was there brought to our first parents the first suggestion of

doubt regarding God's wisdom and goodness? Gen. 3:1.

NoTE.—"It was distrust of God's goodness, disbelief of His word, and re-

jection of His authority, that made our first parents transgressors, and that

brought into the world a knowledge of evil. It was this that opened the door

to every species of falsehood and

error."—"Education,"

p. 25.

Trace the successive steps by which the woman was 'ensnared. Gen.

3:2-5.

How was it that the woman "saw" just what the tempter wanted her

to see? Verse 6.

NOTE.—Eve yielded to the lust of the eyes. She saw the beauty of the tree

and its fruit, permitted doubt to form in her heart concerning God's prohibi-

tion and its justice, and yielded to the persuasive sophistry of the devil. Under

his influence, she joined in transgression and rebellion against God's command.

(See "Ministry of Healing," p. 243, first part.)

10.

When convicted of sin, what excuses did each of the guilty pair

offer to God? Gen. 3:12, 13.

NOTE.—"The spirit of self-justification originated in the father of lies; it

was indulged by our first parents as soon as they yielded to the influence of

Satan, and has been exhibited by all the sons and daughters of

Adam."—"Pa-

triarchs and Prophets,"

p. 58.

11.

What curse was pronounced on the serpent? Verse 14.

NOTE.—"Since it had been employed as Satan's medium, the serpent was to

share the visitation of divine judgment. From the most beautiful and admired

of the creatures of the field, it was to become the most groveling and detested

of them all, feared and hated by both man and

beast."—"Patriarchs and Proph-

ets,"

p. 58.

It is interesting in this connection to note that in the rocks of many coun-

tries have been found the fossil skeletons of serpents which prove that these

creatures had large wings rendering them capable of easy, graceful flight and

that, moreover, they possessed much larger brains in proportion to the size of

their bodies than most animals now have,—far larger than any reptiles of

today.

12.

Show that Adam's sin was much more deliberate and willful than

Eve's. 1 Tim. 2:14.

13.

How does Paul witness to the origin of sin in mankind and its evil

results? Rom. 5:12. •

NoTE.—The evolution theory, and modernism, which is the religious phase

of this theory, flatly deny what this text teaches.

Modernism of Evolution Refuted by the Scriptures

14.

What further light do the Scriptures give us concerning the incep-

tion of sin? 1 John 3:8; Isa. 14:12-14; Ezek. 28:11-19.

NorE.—These scriptures do not "explain" the origin of sin, in the sense of

{8)

giving a real reason for its existence. To "explain" it in this sense would be

to defend it. Sin is and ever must be without justification, without explana-

tion. It was not due to any neglect or lack of foreknowledge on the part of

God. It was due to an abuse of freedom, a deliberately wrong choice by a

being absolutely dependent upon the Creator, who nevertheless deliberately

rebelled against this dependence and wished to become independent of God.

This evil spirit of rebellion was then imparted by the first rebel to other created

beings, and finally to the first of the human race. And in the wake of this first

sin of mankind has developed the long, sad history of its evil consequences,—

sickness, suffering, death, as its direct physical results, with the shameful record

of rebellion and sin in all its forms down through the centuries.

15. What rule given by the Master ought we to apply to the theory of

evolution? Matt. 7:16, 17.

NOTE.—This

is the best kind of rule to apply to the logic of a theory. Since

the evolution theory denies the fall of man, and denies God's entire scheme of

atonement for sin, we have a right to say that there must be something wrong,

something radically and horribly wrong with its teachings about the origin

of the world and the things in it. The entire system of the Christian religion

stands or falls with the Bible record of the first chapters of Genesis.

Lesson 3—July 1 5 , 1939

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SABBATH SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY

Creation Not Now Going On

MEMORY VERSE: "The works were finished from the foundation of the

world." Heb. 4 : 3, last part.

STUDY HELPS: "Ministry of Healing," pp. 409-438; "Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 115; "Back to the Bible," pp. 133-158.

Introduction

For many centuries there have been those whose philosophy has run di-

rectly contrary to the positive teachings of the word of God. These appeared

in the early Christian church, influenced by the philosophic teachings of Plato

and other heathen teachers of the time. Professing to be Christian, they sought

to harmonize heathen philosophy and scientific thought with Biblical teach-

ings, accepting tenets of the logic of the heathen in place of plain Bible thought.

In modern times, the heresy of a "continuous creation" or evolution, has en-

sconced itself in the heart of the professed Christian church, leading the mem-

bership away from God's word and the plain, simple Bible story that tells

us God "spake, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast." Evolu-

tion, or modernism, leads but to one objective—disbelief in and rejection of

the Inspired Record.

The Sabbath Institution Marks a Complete Creation

1. What fact is of first importance in indicating the proper relation-

ship between us and God? Gen. 1:1; Ps. 100:3; Isa. 64:8.

[

)

What divine memorial of this eternal relationship of the creature to

the Creator did God give to mankind? Ex. 31:13, 16, 17; Ezek. 20:20.

Ncrrz.—The prime fact of God as our Creator is the foundation of all moral

obligation, first to God Himself, then to our fellow men, for they also were

created by God. And very appropriately the memorial of this relationship and

this obligation becomes the "seal of God," the badge of all moral obligation.

What facts in connection with the origin of the Sabbath prove that

at that time God's work of creation had come to an end? Gen. 2:1, 3; Ex.

20:8-11.

NOTE.—While evolution denies that there ever was a creation in the sense

of God's speaking the earth and the heavens into existence, the Sabbath stands

as a memorial of a

completed

creation at a definite time in the past. The Sab-

bath would be meaningless if evolutionary theories were true. The Sabbath,

therefore, is an everlasting protest against the teachings of evolution.

What further scripture shows that, so far as this world is concerned,

creation is a completed work? Heb. 4:3.

NoTE.—"As regards this world, God's work of creation is completed. For

`the works were finished from the foundation of the world.' But His energy is

still exerted in upholding the objects of His

creation."—"Patriarchs and Proph-

ets,"

p. 115.

The primary meaning of "rest," used in Genesis 2, in the fourth command-

ment, and in Hebrews 4:10, confirms the fact that the work of creation defi-

nitely ended at the close of the sixth day. The first definition of "rest" in a dic-

tionary is, to cease activity, to stop doing what one is engaged in. This idea is

retained in the common legal phrase, "I rest here," used by lawyers when they

have gone as far in their argument at court as they desire. It contains not the

slightest hint that they are tired out. Similarly the Creator was not weary

from the labor of creation; but having completed what He set out to do, He

rested from this work. And He gave mankind the Sabbath as the divine me-

morial of this event.

God's Power Sustains His Works

What is God still actively engaged in doing for the world and its

inhabitants? Heb. 1:3; Col. 1:17; Isa. 40:26.

When Jesus was arraigned before the Sanhedrin on the charge of

violating the Sabbath, what did He declare about God's present-day activ-

ity? John 5:17.

NorE.—"Nature is the servant of her Creator. God does not annul His

laws, or work contrary to them; but He is continually using them as His in-

struments. Nature testifies of an intelligence, a presence, an active energy,

that works in and through her laws. There is in nature the continual work-

ing of the Father and the Son. Christ says, 'My Father worketh hitherto, and

I work.'

"—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 114. (See also "The Desire of Ages,"

pp. 206, 207.)

How else does the Bible speak of God's active care in sustaining the

things which He has made? Neh. 9:6; Ps. 104 : 24-28.

NoTE.—"It is not because the mechanism that has once been set in motion

continues to act by its own inherent energy, that the pulse beats, and breath

follows breath; but every breath, every pulsation of the heart, is an evidence

( 10 )

of the all-pervading care of Him in whom 'we live, and move, and have our

being.' It is not because of inherent power that year by year the earth pro-

duces her bounties, and continues her motion around the sun. The hand of

God guides the planets, and keeps them in position in their orderly march

through the heavens. . . . It is through His power that vegetation flourishes,

that the leaves appear and the flowers bloom. . . . Every living creature,

from the smallest insect up to man, is daily dependent upon His providential

care."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 115.

The Warning Message Against Latter-day Heresies

What prophecy

gives us a picture

of the latter-day attitude of scien-

tists and religious teachers toward God's word? 2 Peter 3:4.

Nom—Evolutionists and the scientific world generally, rejecting the story

of creation as recorded in the Bible, put in its place a creation brought about

through evolutionary processes, and extending over countless centuries. They

assume that the world had no real beginning, but even now is developing into

new and higher orders. By this reasoning they say in effect that "all things

continue as they were;" there is no danger now, for there never was a world

flood; man never fell; the danger of the destruction of the world by fire is nil,

for there has never been, and never will be a world destruction. Thus, in re-

jecting the Bible record of creation, of the Flood, etc., and substituting their

own fanciful theories for the word of God, they pave the way for doubt, for

infidelity, and the final rejection of God as the creator of all things, leading in

the end to paganism, already strongly entrenched in some lands where God is

set completely at nought.

What great world disaster does the apostle say these last-day mock-

ers have overlooked? 2 Peter 3:5, 6.

NorE.—Both the history of science and the logic of the problem prove that

the entire evolution theory rests primarily upon a denial of the universal

Flood, just as Peter predicted would be the case. The Flood will account for

the fossils and for all the other phenomena of the stratified rocks. But evolu.!"

tionary geologists adopt the theory of putting these fossils in a long series of

successive ages, denying that there ever was a Flood, and seeking to explain

the record of the rocks by modern, everyday processes. Peter, in describing

their peculiar philosophy, says that the scoffers of the last days "willfully

ignore" (Moffatt's translation) the fact that the world was once destroyed by

a universal deluge. And Peter adds that this former universal deluge is good

evidence that God will someday again destroy the world, this time by fire.

2 Peter 3:7, 8.

10.

What portion of the special message for our day seems to have

been specially timed for just this condition of the modern world? Rev. 14:7.

11.

What timely exhortation is given for believers living in these last

days? Luke 21:34-36.

NorE.—The correctness of our views about any truth of the Bible will never

suffice to save us or, make us ready for heaven. Each of us must have a living,

daily connection with the Living Vine. Individually we must be followers of

the God of heaven.

Not for a Goal, but for Your Soul—Study Daily.

[11]

Lesson 4—July 22, 1939

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SABBATH I SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY

The Literal Week

' MEMORY VERSE: "In six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and

all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath

day, and hallowed it." Ex. 20:11.

STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pp. 111-116; "Testimonies to

Ministers," pp. 134-136.

Introduction

Probably most of us do not realize that Seventh-day Adventists are about

the only people who still believe in a real creation of the earth and of the ani-

mals and plants in six literal days.

Yet we

are convinced that this truth must

be of profound importance to the world of our day, else a reform on the mat-

ter of the Sabbath would not have been divinely timed for this day.

God's Creative Power Unlimited

What are we told about the manner in which the creation was brought

about? Ps. 33:6, 9.

NOTE.—Notice

how many times the expression, "God said," is repeated in

the first chapter of Genesis. This is what scholars call a "fiat" creation, or a

creation brought about by the expressed wish or the spoken will of God.

When God "spake, and it was," what things were called into exist-

ence at His word? John 1:3; Heb. 11:3.

NOTE.—The American Revised Version reads: "By faith we understand

that the worlds have been framed by the word of God so that what is seen

hath not been made out of things which appear." Moffatt renders the latter

part of the verse: "and thus the visible was made out of the invisible." This

latter is very closely like the original Greek; but we must not get the impres-

sion that there was some previously-existing

substance

out of which God made

the worlds. The original creation was literally a creation out of nothing

How do we know that the days of creation must have been literal

days, similar to those that we now have? Gen. 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31.

NorE.—Since each one of the creation days is expressly said to have had

its "evening" and "morning," it is obvious that common, literal days are in-

tended. Also the Sabbath is commanded because God occupied six days in

creating, and on the seventh He ceased this work, and rested, or "took de-

light," in what He had made, commanding mankind henceforth to do as He

had done.

"This reason appears beautiful and forcible when we understand the days

of creation to be literal. The first six days of each week are given to man for

labor, because God employed the same period of the first week in the work

of creation. On the seventh day man is to refrain from labor, in commemora-

tion of the Creator's

rest."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 111.

What erroneous interpretation is often given to the record of the

days of creation?

[ 12 I

ANSWER.—The day-age theory, or the view that the days of creation were

long periods of time.

NoTE.—It is admitted that the Hebrew word for day

(yom)

is sometimes

used for an indefinitely long period of time, just as we often use the English

word day (as when we speak of what happens in "our day") ; but the context

in Genesis shows conclusively that such is not its meaning here.

"The assumption that the events of the first week required thousands upon

thousands of years, strikes directly at the foundation of the fourth command-

ment. It represents the Creator as commanding men to observe the week of

literal days in commemoration of vast, indefinite periods. This is unlike His

method of dealing with His creatures. It makes indefinite and obscure that

which He has made very plain. It is infidelity in its most insidious and hence

most dangerous form; its real character is so disguised that it is held and taught

by many who profess to believe the

Bible."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 111.

Since this day-age theory is termed "infidelity in its most insidious

and hence most dangerous form," what statement of the apostle Paul seems

to fit this case? Rom. 1:22.

Sabbath Reform Restores Correct Conception of

Creation Record

Mat prediction tells us the reason why the scoffers of the "last

days" would adopt false ideas about the creation of the world? 2 Peter

3:5, 6.

NorE.—Peter's language means that these last-day scoffers have got into

the errors which they hold because they have grown accustomed to ignoring

the divine record of a universal deluge. Historically and logically the now

popular evolution doctrine is founded on the denial of a universal deluge.

What explanation of scientists is there for these long geological

"ages" during which, they say, the earth was slowly becoming what it is

today?

ANSWER.—This idea of the geological "ages" has been built upon (1) a flat

denial that the earth ever experienced a universal deluge; and (2) a purely

artificial classification of the fossils, by which some of them are assigned to one

"age" and some to another, making thus a long series of successive "ages,"

which, however, are of an arbitrary or artificial character; for the Flood theory

of geology explains everything in a straightforward manner and satisfactorily.

The Protestant churches, by ignoring entirely the Bible record of a universal

deluge, have prepared the way for the almost universal acceptance of the evo-

lution doctrine.

What are the three current interpretations of the fossils which are

found buried in the earth?

ANSWER.—There are only three possible methods of dealing with the fos-

sil plants and animals with reference to the creation:

(1)

Some say they lived

before

the creation of Genesis 1; this is the pre-

Adamite theory.

(2)

Others say they lived

during

a long-drawn-out creation; this is the

day-age theory.

(3)

The Bible teaching of the universal Flood is that they were buried

long

after

the original creation.

[131

In other respects, how does the account of the Flood compare with

the other theories?

ANSWER.—The

two theories always get us into difficulty with reference to

other parts of the Bible. The Flood explanation makes absolute harmony

with the entire Bible, and enables us to take the record of creation at its full

face value. Modern scientific discoveries show that there can be no genuine

scientific objections to it as an explanation of the facts of the stratified rocks.

NOTE.—"In

the history of the Flood, inspiration has explained that which

geology alone could never fathom. In the days of Noah, men, animals, and

trees, many times larger than now exist, were buried, and thus preserved as

an evidence to later generations that the antediluvians perished by a Flood.

God designed that the discovery of these things should establish faith in in-

spired history; but men, with their vain reasoning, fall into the same error as

did the people before the Flood,—the things which God gave them as a benefit,

they turn into a curse by making a wrong use of

them."—"Patriarchs and

Prophets,"

p. 112.

10.

In these days, when the theory of long evolutionary ages is almost

universally believed, show how a Sabbath reform message is specially ap-

propriate. Gen.

2:2;

Ex. 20:8-11; Rev. 14:7.

Lesson 5—July 29, 1939

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SABBATH SUNDAY

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MONDAY

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TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

Natural Law and Miracle of Grice

MEMORY VERSE: "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a

man soweth, that shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7.

STUDY HELPS: "Ministry of Healing,"

pp. 413

438;

"Back to the Bible,"

pp. 105-122.

Introduction

There are those who seek to make a sharp distinction between the natural

and the supernatural. That this distinction is a false one will appear from the

following:

"In dwelling upon the laws of matter and the laws of nature, many lose

sight of, if they do not deny, the continual and direct agency of God. They

convey the idea that nature acts independently of God, having in and of itself

its own limits and its own powers wherewith to work. In their minds there

is a marked distinction between the natural and the supernatural. The natural

is ascribed to ordinary causes, unconnected with the power of God. . . . This

is false science; there is nothing in the word of God to sustain it. . . . God is

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING

September 30, 1939

Missions—Northern European Division

(14

perpetually at work in nature. She is His servant, directed as He pleases.

Nature in her work testifies of the intelligent presence and active agency of

a Being who moves in all His works according to His

will."—"Testimonies,"

vol. 8, pp. 259, 260.

Cause and Effect in Nature and Human Conduct

Why do calamities come? Prov. 26:2, last part.

What cannot evil men do against God's people? Num. 23:8.

Nom—This entire history of Balaam is an outstanding proof that

evil

men, or men and demons combined, have no power to destroy God's people,

except as God permits it for the advancement of His kingdom. All such satanic

incantations as are supposed to accompany witchcraft or the action of the

"evil eye," are of the devil, and can have no harmful influence upon the

people of God so long as they place their trust wholly in Him.

What natural law controls cause and effect both in the spiritual and

physical or natural realms? Gal. 6:7; Rom. 2:6.

What is it that keeps God from bestowing blessings upon nations and

upon individuals? Isa. 59:1, 2; Jer. 5:25.

NOTE.—Sin is here spoken of as a spiritual insulator, keeping the blessings

of God from flowing out to us, just as we might insulate against electricity

by means of rubber or glass.

God Helps and Blesses Those Who Turn to Him

Under what circumstances may God's promise of good be changed?

Jer. 18:7-10.

How is natural law seen in God's dealings with the sinner? Ex. 20:5.

NorE.—"This necessarily implies—if the children walk in the steps of

their fathers; for no man can be condemned by divine justice for a crime of

which he was never guilty. (See Ezekiel 18.) Idolatry is however particularly

intended, and visiting sins of this kind refers principally to national judg-

ments. By withdrawing the divine protection the idolatrous Israelites were

delivered up into the hands of their enemies, from whom the gods in whom

they had trusted could not deliver them. This God did to the third and fourth

generation, i. e., successively; as may be seen in every part of the Jewish his-

tory, and particularly in the book of Judges. And this, at last, became the

grand and the only effectual and lasting means in His hand of their final de-

liverance from idolatry; for it is well known that after the Babylonish cap-

tivity the Israelites were so completely saved from idolatry, as never more to

have disgraced themselves by it as they had formerly

done."—Clarke's Com-

mentary.

How are God's superabounding grace and kindness shown in the

same connection? Ex. 20:6.

Nora.—"Even those who love God and keep His commandments merit

nothing from Him, and therefore the salvation and blessedness which these

enjoy come from the mercy of God: 'Showing mercy,' etc. What a dispropor-

tion between the works of justice and mercy.! Justice works to the 'third' or

'fourth,' mercy' to 'thousands' of generations

l"—Clarke's Commentary.

How willing is God to rescue the repentant sinner from the natural

results of sin? Ezek. 33:11.

[ 15 )

What does God pledge Himself to restore to penitent souls? Joel

2:25.

There Is Safety Only as We Trust in God

10.

What therefore should be our attitude toward such love and mercy?

Jer. 10:23; Prov. 3:5, 6.

11.

What special promise do we have of protection against the delu-

sions and deceptions of the last days? Rev. 3:10.

Lesson 6—August

5, 1939

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SABBATH I SUNDAY

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MONDAY

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TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY

The Significance of the Modern Sabbath Reform

MEMORY VERSE: "Moreover also I gave them My Sabbaths, to be a sign

between Me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them."

Ezek. 20:12.

STUDY HELPS: "Testimonies," vol. 6, pp. 60, 61; vol. 9, p. 16; "Back to the

Bible," pp. 133-158.

Introduction

"The Sabbath question is to be the issue in the great final conflict in which

all the world will act a

part."—"Testimonies,"

vol. 6, p. 352.

The Sabbath a Sign of Creation and Sanctification

Who besides the children of Israel would keep the Sabbath'? Isa.

56:6, 7.

What admonition concerning obedience was given through Jere-

miah? Jer. 6:16.

What promise is given to all who observe the Sabbath? Isa. 58:

13,

14.

NOTE.—While

this prophecy of Isaiah doubtless referred to a current

needed reform, such a reform is especially needed today as we near the close

of the great conflict between good and evil. Surely now as never before, God's

salvation is near to come, and His righteousness to be revealed, and the call

to Sabbath observance is surely part of the last-day reformation.

What was the Sabbath originally established to commemorate? Gen.

2:2; Ex. 20:8-11.

What is the special significance of Sabbath reform in these days?

NoTE.—"For more than a generation now, it has become increasingly clear

that the opening chapter of Genesis is the central point of attack of all the

skeptical forces, either inside or outside the church. Both skeptics and be-

lievers confess that the whole edifice of Bible religion, the whole plan of sal-

vation, rests upon this opening record in Genesis. . . .

f 16 )

"We are saying only the obvious when we declare that the fight today rages

around the belief in the Genesis story of creation. Couple with this the fact

that the seventh-day Sabbath is the memorial of the events described in the

opening Genesis chapters, and there follows the inevitable condusion that

the seventh-day Sabbath of the fourth commandment is the most important

religious institution for all who call themselves Fundamentalists, for all who

believe the Bible. . . .

"When we began the preaching of the seventh-day Sabbath, a generation

ago, its great significance was not so evident to many devout religious people.

But as the years have passed and the great religious war of our present-day

centers more and more around the citadel of the creation record, the signifi-

cance of the seventh-day Sabbath becomes increasingly plain."—Francis

Nichol, in "Review and Herald,"

Sept. 29, 1932.

What further religious meaning was attached to Sabbathkeeping

for the Israelites? Ex. 31:13, 16, 17.

NorE.—This religious meaning still attaches to the Sabbath. "The Sab-

bath given to the world as the sign of God as the creator is also the sign of

Him as the sanctifier. The power that created all things is the power that re-

creates the soul in His own likeness. To those who keep holy the Sabbath

day it is the sign of

sanctification."—"Testimonies,"

vol. 6, p. 350.

How is this same idea expressed many centuries latet through the

prophet Ezekiel? Ezek. 20:12.

Entering Into God's Rest

What will be the experience of everyone who seeks to be justified by

keeping God's law? Rom. 3:19, 20; Gal. 3:11.

NoTE.—"The principle that man can save himself by his own works, lay at

the foundation of every heathen religion; it had now become the principle of

the Jewish religion. Satan had implanted this principle. Wherever it is held,

men have no barrier against sin."

—"The Desire of Ages,"

p. 36.

When we struggle so hard to be righteous, but find that we always

fail, what does Christ invite us to do? Matt. 11:28; Phil. 2:13.

10.

How is this spiritual relief connected with the observance of the

Sabbath? Heb. 4:10.

NorE.—The obvious meaning of this text is that if we would enter into

God's rest of soul, we must cease from our own works to make ourselves

righteous, and must trust to the work of Christ, already finished and com-

pleted for us, awaiting only our demand and reception. And this ceasing from

our own works is compared to God's resting on the seventh day. Hence the

Sabbath becomes the memorial of the rest from the works of self-justification,

and the rest of soul that comes to those who trust in what God through Christ

has accomplished for us.

Sabbath Observance the Final Test

11.

How universal is the requirement of Sabbath observance? Mark

2:27.

NoiE.—All men, all nations, all races need the blessed truths represented

by the Sabbath; and no people ever needed them more than the peOple of

our day.

[ 17I

12.

What was the practice of the apostle Paul with reference to the

Sabbath when preaching to Jews and Gentiles? Acts 13:42; 16:13; 17:2;

18:4, 11.

13.

What call to worship is to be given to the people of the last days?

Rev. 14:7.

14.

What other worship is placed in direct contrast to this worship of

the Creator? Rev. 14:9; 13:15.

NOTE.—It is clear that the crisis of the ages is to be a test, a final rallying

call to mankind on the part of these two powers, each calling for the obedi-

ence and worship of the entire race.

The present-day vogue of the evolutionary theory, denying as it does the

facts of a literal creation as described in the early chapters of the Bible, sets

up a tendency among professing Christians which will demand a choice for

or against the teaching of God's word. The Sabbath is inevitably involved.

If one accepts the literal creation, he must accept the Sabbath—its memorial.

Only so can he be said truly to worship the Creator. True Sabbathkeeping

thereby becomes a sign of acceptance of the Creator as God, of His record of

creation as the only true and authentic factual account.

Lesson 7—August 12, 1939

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SABBATH SUNDAY

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MONDAY

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TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY1 THURSDAY FRIDAY

Why God Permits Suffering

MEMORY

VERSE: "We know that all things work together for good to them

that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." Rom. 8:28.

STUDY HELP: "Ministry of Healing," pp. 247-259; 469-482.

Introduction

"Those who surrender their lives to His guidance and to His service will

never be placed in a position for which He has not made provision."—"Min-

istry

of Healing,"

p. 248.

"We are never called upon to make a real sacrifice for God. Many things

He asks us to yield to Him, but in doing this we are but giving up that which

hinders us in the heavenward way. Even when called upon to surrender those

things which in themselves are good, we may be sure that God is thus work-

ing out for us some higher good.

"In the future life, the mysteries that here have annoyed and disappointed

us will be made plain. We shall see that our seemingly unanswered prayers

and disappointed hopes have been among our greatest blessings."—"Ministry

of Healing,"

pp. 473, 474.

Suffering a Corrective Leading to Perfection

1. How does the experience of Job illustrate the fact that Satan tries

to make God's people

unhappy?

Job 1:10, 12; 2:3-6.

Nom—This action of Satan was mere provocation, trying to make Job

miserable in order to cause him to sin against God. The record shows that

[181

Satan brought everything he was permitted to bring against Job in order to

induce him to rebel against God.

How

is the disciplinary purpose

of suffering brought out by

Hosea?

Hosea 6:1.

NOTE.—"Each fiery trial is God's agent for their [God's children's] refin-

ing. Each is fitting them for their work as colaborers with Him. Each con-

flict has its place in the great battle for righteousness, and each will add to

the joy of their final triumph. Having this in view, the test of their faith and

patience will be cheerfully accepted rather than dreaded and avoided."—"The

Desire of Ages,"

p. 306.

Show how the sufferings of the prodigal son resulted in repentance

and a return to his father. Luke 15:11-19.

What language by Paul brings out this disciplinary or educative

purpose of the sufferings which God allows to come upon His people?

1 Cor. 11:32.

How does God seek to teach us that He is our Father? Heb. 12:5-8.

The Father's Hand in Affliction

We know that God is infinite; He controls the entire universe in all

of its most minute details; how may we know that He will do nothing that

is not for our ultimate good? Rom. 8:28, 32.

NorE.—"God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose

to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory

of the purpose which they are fulfilling as coworkers with Him. Not Enoch,

who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire,

was greater or more honored than John the Baptist who perished alone in the

dungeon. 'Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only

believe on

Him, but also to suffer for His sake.' And of all the gifts that Heaven can be-

stow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty

trust and the highest honor."—"The

Desire of Ages,"

p. 225.

How does the psalmist express his confidence in the wisdom and

effectiveness of God's providences? Ps. 34:7, 10.

How is this same idea further expressed? Prov. 16:7.

How does another prophet express the educative purpose of trials

and sufferings? Mal. 3:3.

NOTE.—"It

is right to be dissatisfied with the way in which we perform

duty, but we are not to be dissatisfied with the duty itself because we would

rather do something else. In His providence God places before human beings

service that will be as medicine to their diseased minds. Thus He seeks to lead

them to put aside the selfish preference, which, if gratified, would disqualify

them for the work He has for them. If they accept and perform this service,

their minds will be cured. If they refuse•it, they will be left at strife with

themselves and

others."—"Gospel Workers,"

p. 270.

10.

In order that we may reach spiritual maturity and may bear more

fruit, what does Jesus say will be done? John 15:2.

God's Purpose Vindicated

11.

Show the remedial purpose in the driving of the first pair out of

the Garden of Eden. Gen. 3:23, 24.

[ 19

NOTE.—Adam and Eve, who had

been

placed in God's garden "to dress

it and to keep it," were henceforth to till the soil and earn their bread in the

sweat of their faces. Yet this toil was to be for their own good. To have

perpetuated evil forever would have cursed the universe of God for all eter-

nity. Man chose to disobey—he must now suffer separation from the comforts

of his previous holy state, and through toil in the elements from which he

came, so occupy his days that in his sinful weakened state he would not find

time to indulge his evil tendencies. Of Sodom later it was said that she was

destroyed because her inhabitants were cursed by "fullness of bread, and

abundance of idleness." Ezek. 16:49. God placed upon man the task of win-

ning subsistence from the earth, and this for his own good, lest an idle hand

and idle mind become the devil's workshop to his eternal loss.

12.

Was there not a merciful purpose in God's destruction of the earth

by the first great world disaster? Gen. 6:7, 13.

Nom—The following wise remarks are from Dr. John Woodward's "Es-

say Toward a Natural History of the Earth," published in 1695, one of the

first books which gave a sound scientific treatise on Flood geology:

"The first earth was suited to the first state of mankind, who were the

inhabitants of it, and for whose use 'twas made. But when human nature had,

by the fall, suffered so great a change, 'twas but necessary that the earth should

undergo a change too, the better to accommodate it to the condition that

mankind was

then

in: and

such

a change the Deluge brought to pass."—

Page 98.

13.

What experiences, are we told, will have been passed through by the

redeemed who at last stand triumphant before God? Rev. 7:14.

Lesson 8—August 19, 1939

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check mark in proper space.

SABBATH SUNDAY

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MONDAY

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TUESDAY !WEDNESDAY' THURSDAY — FRIDKY

How Does Apostasy Arise?

MEMORY VERSE: "Take heed lest there shall be anyone that tnaketh spoil of

you through his philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men." Col. 2:8,

R. V.

STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pp. 113, 117-124; "The Great

Controversy," pp. 582-592 (new ed., pp. 657-667); "Back to the Bible," pp. 133-136,

232-235, 117.

Introduction

It is a great mistake to think that the religions of Greece and Rome, of

Egypt and Babylon, of India and China, were always merely a blind worship

of images and a following of magical incantations. Such do heathen religions

seem to be, when we view them in their full development, in their maturity.

But in their beginnings, and even later, to the initiated, or those who knew

the inner teachings of their heathen faith, there was more than images and

magic. All seem to have originated as supposedly wise systems of "explain-

ing" the various phenomena of nature, as attempts to' account for the origin

of things, or as efforts to "explain" man's relationship to the universe and to

[20

the mysterious Power at the head of the universe. All heathen systems seem

to have had about the same origin. Modernism, or what is often termed

"theistic evolution," is exactly another apostate religion in the making. Should

time last, the world would probably see another colossal apostate paganism

founded on the theories taught in the name of "modern science."

Man Exalted Above the Creator

What powers over nature were given to man in the beginning? Gen.

1:28.

Norm.—In addition to the "dominion" over the living things of nature,

man was also commanded to "subdue" the earth. In our modern engineering

and applied sciences of chemistry and physics we see the partial, though long-

delayed, fulfillment of this command to subdue the earth. However, these

vast powers over nature are full of danger and menace when they are possessed

by rebels against God, by beings at war against the wise and beneficent laws

of the Creator. As Sir Alfred Ewing remarked in his presidential address be-

fore the British Association for the Advancement of Science, September, 1932,

man is wholly unprepared to use wisely these vast powers now within his

reach, for he "is still unfitted for the tremendous responsibility it entails. The

command of nature has been put into his hands before he knows how to com-

mand himself."

How does Paul describe the apostasy of men in the long ago? Rom.

1:25.

Norz.—The original word here translated "creature" means anything that

has been created. These men in ancient times, like those of our day, became

absorbed in acquiring and using the

things

made or created by God, instead

of being intent on worshiping and serving the Creator of these things.

What does the apostle say was the real reason behind these ancient

apostasies? Rom. 1:21; compare John 1:9.

NOTE.—This is the real explanation of all apostasy ;—the rejection of

Christ, of the true light, knowing God but failing to glorify Him as God. Thus

darkness flooded men's minds so that the "world by wisdom knew not God."

Rejecting Light Invites Disaster

What is said of the condition of the antediluvian world? Gen. 6:5.

What light do we have on the moral decay of Sodom? Gen. 13:13;

Ezek. 16 : 49.

What evil trend did Judah and Jerusalem follow? 2 Chron. 36:14-16.

How does God deal with nations as such? Gen. 15:16; Lev. 18:24-28.

Norz.—"Prophecy has traced the rise and fall of the world's great em-

pires,—Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. With each of these, as with

nations of less power, history repeated itself. Each had its period of test, each

failed, its glory faded, its power departed, and its place• was occupied by

another."—"Education," p. 177.

"With unerring accuracy, the Infinite One still keeps an account with all

nations. While His mercy is tendered, with calls to repentance, this account

will remain open; but when the figures reach a certain amount which God

has fixed, the ministry of His wrath commences. The account is closed. Divine

patience ceases. There is no more pleading of mercy in their

behalf."—"Tes-

timonies,"

vol. 5, p. 208.

What effect did a special manifestation of God's presence have upon

Job, a righteous man? Job 42:5, 6.

What very different effect did a similar manifestation of God from

Sinai have upon many of the Israelites who were still unregenerate? Ex.

20:19.

NorE.—Where man is living in full harmony with the principles of God's

kingdom, he is not fearful of direct contact and speech with his Maker. Israel

was faithless and disobedient, only shortly out of slavery in Egypt. They

desired an intermediary. Men today, through their rejection of the teachings

of God's word, and because of placing their confidence upon human wisdom,

make a cleavage between themselves and God. He can no longer speak to

their hearts. Their dependence is placed wholly on the wisdom of this world.

In effect they say, "We cannot hear God, nor understand what He says. These

human teachings we can understand. We will accept these in place of God's

speaking to us." But such a course cannot result otherwise than in the ulti-

mate rejection of all that God has revealed for our learning. The end will be

infidelity, and a revival of paganism. This we already see in many parts of

the world.

10.

What followed the rejection of the special light given to the Israel-

ites? Ex. 32:1-6, 26-28.

Advent Message Exposes Last Apostasy

11.

What warning did Paul give Timothy regarding the false and dan-

gerous theories of science prevalent in their day? 1 Tim. 6:20, 21.

12.

What part did these false scientific or philosophic theories have

in the making of the great apostasy which followed soon after the apostles

were dead? Col. 2:8; 2 Thess. 2:10, last part, 11, 12.

NOTE.—The semipaganism was the blending of ancient philosophy with

the outward forms of Christianity which resulted in the first great apostasy;

the blending of the modern world-view is in our day resulting in the great

modern apostasy. The former produced the "beast"; the latter will produce

—what? The image to the beast.

13.

What peculiar mixture of religion and false science does Peter say

will prevail in the "last days"? 2 Peter 3:3, 4.

14.

What will result from this modern apostasy's obtaining control

of the civil governments of the world in the last days? Rev. 13:11-14.

15.

What timely warning does God send to the world to counteract this

modern apostasy? Rev. 14:7-12.

16.

Finally, what are God's true people exhorted to do? Rev. 18:4.

Plan your gifts to the cause of God as you plan for your

personal needs.

122

)

Lesson 9—August 26, 1939

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SABBATH

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TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY

Probation

MEMORY VERSE: "That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel

after Him, and find Him." Acts 17:27, first part.

STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pp. 321, 322, 587; "The Great Contro-

versy," pp. 428, 490, 491 (new ed., pp. 489, 556. 557).

Introduction

All life is a probation. God's love embraces every human being; and life

and consequently probation will be prolonged just so long as God in His infi-

nite wisdom sees that there is any possibility that the individual, the nation,

or the world will improve this probation in the right way. "To every erring

son and daughter of Adam He gives the privilege of another trial."—Mrs.

Ellen G. White, in "Signs of the Times,"

May 21, 1902. And yet, "all around

us are souls going down to ruin as hopeless, as terrible, as that which befell

Sodom. Every day the probation of some is closing. Every hour some are

passing beyond the reach of

mercy."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 140.

Divine Light Illumines Our Pathway

What is given for the illumination of every human life? John 1:9.

Norn.—"Among the heathen are those who have cherished the spirit of

kindness; before the words of life had fallen upon their ears, they have be-

friended the missionaries, even ministering to them at the peril of their own

lives. Among the heathen are those who worship God ignorantly, those to

whom the light is never brought by human instrumentality, yet they will not

perish. Though ignorant of the written law of God, they have heard His

voice speaking to them in nature, and have done the things that the law re-

quired. Their works are evidence that the Holy Spirit has touched their hearts,

and they are recognized as the children of

God."—"The Desire of Ages,"

p. 638.

Having been given light, what is man's position before God? Rom.

1:20, last part.

What is taken into consideration by the Lord in judging the lives of

men? Ps. 87:4-6.

How only may we obtain acceptance with God? Eph. 2:8; Rom. 4:

13, 16.

NoTE.—We obtain acceptance with God through faith. It is God's gift

through our choice, our desire. God gives us His righteousness, and no knowl-

edge of the theory of truth will avail us without our yielding ourselves to

God, and our acceptance of His righteousness through living faith. "Genuine

faith is life."

Responsibility for Making Right Decision

What does Jesus teach concerning our accountability for light given

us? John 12:35.

NorE.—"If you wait for light to come in a way that will please everyone,

(281

SUNDAY

MONDAY

you will wait in vain. If you wait for louder calls or better opportunities, the

light will be withdrawn, and you will be left in darkness. Accept every ray

of light that God sends. Men who neglect to heed the calls of the Spirit and

word of God, because obedience involves a cross, will lose their

souls."—"Tes-

timonies,"

vol. 5, p. 720.

What is God's purpose in His dealing with all peoples? Acts 17:

26, 27.

How long will God bear with peoples and nations? Gen. 15:16;

Matt. 23:31, 32.

To what is the church of God compared? Matt. 5:14, 13.

What will God do to those who have turned from Him and lost their

love for His truth? Rev. 18:2-8.

No Second Probation After Death

10.

With what parable did Jesus illustrate the probation extended to

the individual or to the nation? Luke 13:6-9.

11.

With what other parable did Jesus seek to illustrate the fact that

there can be no second probation, or probation after death? Luke 16:26.

NOTE.—"Thus

Christ represented the hopelessness of looking for a second

probation. This life is the only time given to man in which to prepare for

eternity."—"Christ's

Object Lessons,"

p. 263.

"The unconditional pardon of sin never has been, and,never will be. Such

pardon would show the abandonment of the principles of righteousness which

are the very foundation of the government of God. It would fill the unfallen

universe with consternation. God has faithfully pointed out the results of

sin, and if these warnings were not true, how could we be sure that His prom-

ises would be fulfilled? That so-called benevolence which would set aside

justice, is not benevolence, but weakness."—"Patriarchs

and Prophets,"

522.

Lesson 10—September

1939

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SABBATH

SUNDAY

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MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

Lessons From Nature and From God's Providences

MEMORY VERSE: "Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created

these things, that bringeth out their host by number: He calleth them all by names by

the greatness of His might, for that He is strong in power; not one faileth." Isa. 40:26.

STUDY HELPS: "Ministry of Healing," pp. 51-58; "Education," pp. 99-101;

"Counsels to Teachers," pp. 185-190.

Introduction

There can be little doubt that we have not sufficiently accustomed our-

selves to thinking of God's providential care for us in connection with His

care for the great universe around us. God's care for His universe ought to

convince us that He can and will care for us His children.

[ 24 ]

"While the Bible should hold the first place in the education of children

and youth, the book of nature is next in importance."—"Counsels

to Teach-

ers,"

p. 185.

God's Wisdom and Care Revealed in Creation

How is God spoken of in contrast with the inanimate idols of the

heathen? Jer. 10:10, first part.

NOTE.—The term "living" attached to the second Name implies that He

is constantly engaged in maintaining the universe which He has created, and

that He is just as unceasingly ordering all the providences which attend our

lives.

"Above the distractions of the earth He sits enthroned; all things are open

to His divine survey; and from His great and calm eternity He orders that

which His providence sees

best."—"Ministry of Healing,"

p. 417.

What promise is given to them who seek for true wisdom in any de-

partment of life or of knowledge? Prov. 2:1-5; James 1:5.

NOTE.—"Whatever line of investigation we pursue, with a sincere purpose

to arrive at truth, we are brought in touch with the unseen, mighty Intelli-

gence that is working in and through

all."—"Education,"

p. 14.

What may we learn from the larger aspects of the universe? Ps.

19:1-4.

NoTE.—"Upon all created things is seen the impress of the Deity. Nature

testifies of God. The susceptible mind, brought in contact with the miracle

and mystery of the universe, cannot but recognize the working of infinite

power. Not by its own inherent energy does the earth produce its bounties,

and year by year continue its motion around the sun. An unseen hand guides

the planets in their circuit of the

heavens."—"Education,"

p. 99.

What may we learn from the smaller aspects of nature? Matt. 10:

29, 30.

NoTE.—The wonders of the miscroscope, the sciences of chemistry and

physics, have opened up some of the ways in which the Creator manages the

details of His universe. The scientific law of the conservation of energy tells

us that all the various forms of energy are but the same at last; they are but

variant manifestations of the very same Power, maintaining in orderly array

a thousand million suns, and at the same time controlling without any mis-

takes the molecules, atoms, protons, and electrons of which our bodies and all

the rest of nature are composed.

What personal encouragement may we receive from these facts?

Matt. 6:28-30.

How is God's care for His creatures expressed by the psalmist? Ps.

145:9, 15, 16.

The Regenerative Power of the Gospel

What promise was given to our first parents that God would implant

a counterworking power against the evil that is working in all the world?

Gen. 3:15.

NoTE.—"This sentence, spoken in the hearing of our first parents, was to

them a promise. Before they heard of the thorn and the thistle, of the toil and

sorrow that must be their portion, or of the dust to which they must return,

t25)

they listened to words that could not fail of giving them hope. All that had

been lost by yielding to Satan could be regained through

Christ."—"Educa-

tion,"

p. 27.

What impressive language is used by Isaiah to describe the power

and wisdom of the Creator? Isa. 40:26.

For more than the first two thousand years of human history, men

had no Bible, no written word of God. What did the people of those times

have by which to learn the will of their Creator? Rom. 1:20; Acts 14:17.

NorE.—They had (1) the book of nature; (2) they had the providential

dealings of God with themselves personally, and with their companions and

with their forefathers, as given by tradition; and (3) they had the direct voice

of God speaking to thei

r souls.

"The whole natural world is designed to be an interpreter of the things of

God.. . . The most effective way to teach the heathen who know not God, is

through His works. In this way, far more readily than by any other method,

they can be made to realize the difference between their idols, the works of

their own hands, and the true God, the Maker of heaven and earth. . . . There

is a simplicity and purity in these lessons direct from nature that makes them

of the highest value to others besides the

heathen."—"Counsels to Teachers,"

p. 186.

"The poet and the naturalist have many things to say about nature, but it

is the Christian who enjoys the beauty of the earth with the highest apprecia-

tion, because he recognizes his Father's handiwork, and perceives His love in

flower and shrub and

tree."—"Steps to Christ,"

p. 91.

10.

What far-reaching principle was announced in Christ's words to

Nicodemus? John 3:3-7.

NOTE.—Christ taught Nicodemus that God through the work of the Holy

Spirit could transform and regenerate man so that he would be reborn, a new

creature. This new life is the life of God pulsating in the channel fully sur-

rendered and open to His life. One of the most important discoveries of mod-

ern times is that living things can come only from previously living things of

the same kind. All life comes from the living God, the Creator. He, too, is the

regenerator, making us new creatures in Christ Jesus. "I live; yet not I, but

Christ liveth in me." Gal. 2:20.

11.

Mat further statement of this fact do we find in Paul's writings?

2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15.

Trustfully Abiding in God

12.

Since the work of creation was "finished from the foundation of the

world (Heb. 4:3) how is the present orderly system of nature maintained?

John 5:17; Heb. 1:3.

NOTE.—It is a paganlike view of nature which would suppose that God

started the universe running and thenceforth allowed it to run on its endowed

or inherent energy. God's power is still ceaselessly exercised in "upholding all

things by the word of His power" (Heb. 1:3), that same divine word by which

the universe was originally called into existence.

13.

What sublime statement of trust in the wisdom and goodness of the

Creator is expressed by the prophet Habakkuk? Hab. 3:17, 18.

[26]

14. What incident in the career of Elijah illustrates God's care for

those who obey Him? 1 Kings 17:13-16.

•

15. What great scientific fact has God recorded in the earth in order

to protect the people of our day from such false teachings as those of or-.

ganic evolution? Ps. 104:6-9; 2 Peter 3:3-7.

NOTE.—Since

we have been told that

"God designed that the discovery of

these things [the fossil animals and plants] should establish faith in inspired

history" ("Patriarchs and Prophets," page 112), we may conclude that it is

proper for His people in these last days to point to the fossils as a result of the

Flood. An intelligent recognition of the Flood as having been the cause of the

burial of the fossils would protect any logical-minded man from the delusions

of the evolution theory. And such a recognition would be one of the most

helpful ideas in strengthening faith in the Bible and in the Christian religion.

Lesson 11—September 9, 1939

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TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY FRIDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

The First Great World Disaster

MEMORY VERSE: "As in the days that were before the Flood they were eating

and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into

the ark, and knew not until the Flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the

coming of the Son of man be." Matt. 24:38, 39.

STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pp. 90-104; "The Geological-Ages

Hoax," Price, pp. 93-106; "The New Geology," Price, pp. 679-692.

Introduction

The relatively large space occupied by the record of the Flood in the book

of Genesis, where all the other events of the early days of the world are re-

corded so very briefly, ought to indicate the vital importance of this record

of the world's first great disaster. By a proper study of this subject, it will

be seen that this record in Genesis is of especial importance to the people liv-

ing in the very last days of earth's history, just before the second great world

disaster; for these two events are constantly associated in the teachings of

Christ and in the writings of the apostles.

Man's Corruption Brings Warning of Flood

1. After the murder of Abel, what was done regarding the murderer?

Gen. 4:13-15.

NoTE.—"In sparing the life of the first murderer,

God presented before the

whole universe a lesson bearing upon the great controversy. The dark history

of Cain and his descendants was an illustration of what would have been the

result of permitting the sinner to live on forever, to carry out his rebellion

against God. The forbearance of God only rendered the wicked more bold

and defiant in their iniquity. Fifteen centuries after the sentence pronounced

upon Cain, the universe witnessed the fruition of his influence and example, in

the crime and pollution that flooded the earth. It was made manifest that the

[27

sentence of death pronounced upon the fallen race for the transgression of

God's law was both just and merciful. The longer men lived in sin, the more

abandoned they became. The divine sentence cutting short a career of un-

bridled iniquity, and freeing the world from the influence of those who hail

become hardened in rebellion, was a blessing rather than a

curse."—"Patri-

archs and Prophets,"

p. 78.

What do we know of the state of civilization before the Flood?

Gen. 6:1-7.

Norz.—"Notwithstanding the wickedness of the antediluvian world, that

age was not, as has often been supposed, an era of ignorance and barbarism.

. . . Their mental powers were early developed, and those who cherished the

fear of God and lived in harmony with His will, continued to increase in knowl-

edge and wisdom throughout their life. . .

"The antediluvians were without books, they had no written records; but

with their great physical and mental vigor, they had strong memories, able to

grasp and to retain that which was communicated to them, and in turn to

transmit it unimpaired to their posterity. And for hundreds of years there

were seven generations living upon the earth contemporaneously, having the

opportunity of consulting together, and profiting each by the knowledge and

experience of all.

"The advantages enjoyed by men of that age to gain a knowledge of God

through His works have never been equaled since. And so far from being an

era of religious darkness, that was an age of great light. All the world had

opportunity to receive instruction from Adam, and those who feared the Lord

had also Christ and angels for their teachers. And they had a silent witness

to the truth, in the garden of God, which for so many centuries remained

among

men."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

pp. 82, 83.

Why did God finally decide

destroy the entire world by a Flood?

Gen. 6:11-13.

NoTE.—"The world was in its infancy; yet iniquity had become so deep

and widespread that God could no longer bear with it; and He said, 'I will

destroy man whom

have created, from the face of the earth.' He declared

that His Spirit should not always strive with the guilty race. If they did not

cease to pollute with their sins the world and its rich treasures, He would blot

them from His creation, and would destroy the things with which He had de-

lighted to bless them; He would sweep away the beasts of the field, and the

vegetation which furnished such an abundant supply of food, and would trans-

form the fair earth into one vast scene of desolation and

ruin."—"Patriarchs

and Prophets,"

p. 92.

How completely did God say He would destroy the animals and

plants? Gen. 7:4,

margin.

How completely does the record say this was carried out? Verses

19-23.

•

Noah Enters the Ark

What day marks the beginning of the Flood? Verse 11.

When, therefore, did Noah actually enter the ark? Verses 7, 10.

The Agencies of Destruction at Work

What agencies besides the rain were employed to produce the de-

struction? Gen. 6:17.

[ 28 )

Nom—Prof. Eduard Suess, the noted geologist, says that the Hebrew

word

majim

here translated "of waters" may properly be regarded as

maijam,

"from the sea." However this may be, it is clear that in the record of how the

Flood was accomplished (Gen. 7:11), the expression "the fountains of the

great deep" must refer to the ocean; for throughout the Old Testament the

terms "the deep" and "the great deep" are used for the ocean. This breaking

up of the.fountains of the great deep must refer to something like a series of

huge tidal waves (or earthquake waves) which rolled in from the oceans over

the lands.

How is this fact of the ocean's part in the Flood expressed in other

scriptures? Ps. 104:5-7, 9; Job 38:8, 11.

NorE.—It is a

very common thing, in the rocks formed by the Flood, to

find great numbers of layers or beds containing land forms alternating with

others containing the remains of creatures from the deep ocean. It is the or-

dinary condition for the coal beds, which were formed of land plants and trees,

to occur alternately with other beds containing sea animals. Such conditions

seem to indicate an alternate moving of the waters back and forth, like the flow

and ebb of the tide, only on an enormous scale. Indeed, an abnormal tidal

action seems to be implied in the Psalms and in Job as among the chief factors

in producing the Flood.

10.

If the waters on earth were again to be released, how completely

would these cover the land areas?

ANswxR.—The average depth of the ocean is about 13,000 feet, and the

average height of the dry land is about 2,250 feet. Thus the ocean is nearly

six times as deep as the land is high, in general average. And as the ocean's

surface is about three times that of the dry land, there is nearly

eighteen times

as much water below sea level as



is dry land above it. If all the dry lands

were to be sunk beneath the sea, the water would be raised only a few hundred

feet above

its present level. Furthermore, if the solid part of the earth were

to be smoothed out to a perfectly even surface, the water of the ocean would

cover the entire earth to a depth of nearly 9,000 feet, or about 1.56 miles. A

very slight disturbance of the present delicate balance of land and water would

be required to spill the oceans all over the lands. It is a striking manifestation

of the watchcare of the Creator that the ocean keeps so obediently within the

bounds set for it since the Flood. "Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further."

Job 38:11.

11.

How long did it take for the Flood to reach its maximum of destruc-

tiveness? Gen. 7:12, 17.

12.

After this first period of forty days, when the Flood was increasing

to its maximum, what length of time did the Flood waters "prevail" over

the earth? Verse 24.

13.

What other similar period of time is next mentioned? Gen.

8:3.

14.

When was the land finally left dry? Gen. 8:14; Ps. 104:7, 8.

Nom—The American Revised Version of the latter text reads as follows:

"At Thy rebuke they [the waters] fled; at the voice of Thy thunder they

hasted away (the mountains rose, the valleys sank down) unto the place

which Thou hadst

founded for them."

15.

What then is the total period of the Flood, from its beginning until

at least some of the dry land appeared? Compare Gen. 7:11 with 8:13, 14.

This makes a year and ten days.

[ 29 )

16.

What language clearly indicates something like the ebb and flow

of enormous tides in the subsidence of the Flood as well as in its oncoming?

Gen. 8:3, margin. .

The Lesson of the Flood

17.

What covenant did God establish with Noah immediately after the

Flood? Gen. 9:12-17.

18.

What important facts may we learn from the Bible record of the

Flood?

ANSWER.—A

candid study of the Flood as recorded in the Bible estab-

lishes the following important facts:

(a)

The Flood came as a special act of God to destroy the race and the

world as it then was. Gen. 6:13.

(b)

The Flood was universal over the globe. Gen. 7:19.

(c)

The Flood lasted long enough to destroy all land animal life outside

the ark, and was violent enough to destroy many marine animals, and to bury

trees, plants, and animals under deep beds of sand and clay. Gen. 7:21, 22.

(d)

After the waters abated, God expressly set bounds so that never again

should they cover the earth with another Flood. Ps. 104:9.

(e)

The rainbow is the sign of God's promise never to bring another uni-

versal Flood. Gen. 9:12-17.

Lesson 12—September 16, 1939

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SABBATH SUNDAY

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MONDAY

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TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

The Effects of the Flood

MEMORY VERSE: "There shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after

their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of His corning? for since the fathers

fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. For

this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old,

and the earth standing out of the water and in the water; whereby the world that

then was, being overflowed with water, perished: but the heavens and the earth, which

are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of

judgment and perdition of ungodly men." 2 Peter 3:3-7.

STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pp. 105-112; "The Geological-Ages

Hoax," pp. 28-106; "Back to the Bible," pp. 45-77; "The New Geology," pp.

679

692.

Introduction

There are a thousand and one subjects of scientific study and investigation

in these days, but the most important of them all is the proper understanding

of what was actually accomplished by the Flood. A correct understanding of

this matter is of especial importance for the people of God in these last days,

because this subject holds the key to all the current scientific problems, includ-

ing those of the evolution theory, and because we are living now just before

the earth is to be again destroyed by another world catastrophe, a destruction

by fire.

( 80 )

Changes Caused by the Flood

What was the condition of the earth after God created it? Gen. 1:31.

What scriptures indicate that up to the time of the Flood the atmos-

phere must have been in many respects different from that of our day,

since up to that time rain had never fallen? Gen. 2:5, 6; Heb. 11:7.

Nora.—"The world before the Flood reasoned that for centuries the laws

of nature had been fixed. The recurring seasons had come in their order.

Heretofore rain had never fallen; the earth had been watered by a mist or

dew. The rivers had never yet passed their boundaries, but had borne their

waters safely to the sea. Fixed decrees had kept the waters from overflowing

their

banks."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

pp. 96, 97.

After the Flood, what beautiful sign appeared for the first time?

Gen. 9:14.

Nara.—The rainbow is produced by certain conditions of the atmosphere;

but since these conditions did not prevail in the antediluvian world, there was

no rainbow. When the necessary conditions prevailed after the Flood, Noah

saw a rainbow.

If the Flood actually inundated

the entire earth, and if the ocean

waters were repeatedly carried back and forth (as indicated by the expres-

sion "going and returning," Gen. 8:3, margin), what would these ocean

waters, as well as the land waters produced by the torrential rains, inevit-

ably produce in enormous and widespread geological changes?

ANswEs.—"The entire surface of the

earth was changed at the Flood. A

third dreadful curse rested upon it in consequence of sin. As the water began

to subside, the hills and mountains were surrounded by a vast, turbid sea.

Everywhere were strewn the dead bodies of men and beasts. The Lord would

not permit these to remain to decompose and pollute the air, therefore He

made of the earth a vast burial ground. A violent wind which was caused to

blow for the purpose of drying up the waters, moved them with•great force,

in some instances even carrying away the tops of the mountains, and heaping

up trees, rocks, and earth above the bodies of the dead. . . .

"The earth presented an appearance of confusion and desolation impossi-

ble to describe. The mountains, once so beautiful in their perfect symmetry,

had become broken and irregular. Stones, ledges, and ragged rocks were now

scattered upon the surface of the earth. In many places, hills and mountains

had disappeared, leaving no trace where they once stood; and plains had given

place" to mountain ranges. These changes were more marked in some places

than in others. Where once had been earth's richest treasures of gold, silver,

and precious stones, were seen the heaviest marks of the curse. And upon

countries that were not inhabited; and those where there had been the least

crime, the curse rested more

lightly."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

pp. 107, 108.

Since up to the time of the Flood no such convulsion of the waters

had ever occurred, and since God promised that never again would such

Flood be allowed

to desolate the earth (Gen. 8:21, 22), what must have

caused the burial of the fossils?

ANSWER.—Everyone who wishes to take the Bible at its full face value

acknowledges that the Flood was the cause of the great geological changes,

and the cause of the burial in the earth of all the remarkable prehistoric forms

of life, including the beds of coal, the innumerable remains of fossil fishes, and

( 81 )

the large extinct animals, such as the dinosaurs and the elephants, with innu-

merable others. The pre-Adamite theory of the fossils is unscriptural and un-

scientific; the day-age theory is unreasonable and in many ways unscientific,

and is contrary to the entire plan of Christian faith and doctrine. It leads

inevitably to the evolution theory. The only possible view that is in harmony

with the Bible is that the Flood caused the geological changes.

'What permission was given to man respecting his food after the

Flood? Gen. 9:3-5.

NoTE.—"Before this time God had given man no permission to eat animal

food; He intended that the race should subsist wholly upon the productions

of the earth; but now that every green thing had been destroyed, He allowed

them to eat the flesh of the clean beasts that had been preserved in the ark."

—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 107.

"God saw that the ways of man were corrupt, and that he was disposed to

exalt himself proudly against his Creator, and to follow the inclinations of his

own heart. And He permitted that long-lived race to eat animal food to

shorten their sinful lives. Soon after the Flood the race began to rapidly de-

crease in size, and in length of years. There were a class of very large animals

which perished at the Flood. God knew that the strength of man would de-

crease, and these mammoth animals could not be controlled by feeble man."

—"Spiritual Gifts,"

vol. 4, p. 121.

Man's Scheme of World Dominion Thwarted

How did God plan that the now desolated earth should again become

peopled with human beings and again stocked with plant and animal life?

Gen. 9:1; 8:17.

As time went on, how did some of the people try to counteract this

command of God to scatter abroad over the earth? Gen. 11:4.

How did God break up their rebellious scheme and scatter them

abroad? Verses 6-9.

NoTE.—"God

had directed men to disperse throughout the earth, to re-

plenish and subdue it; but these Babel builders determined to keep their com-

munity united in one body, and to found a monarchy that should eventually

embrace the whole earth. Thus their city would become the metropolis of a

universal empire: its glory would command the admiration and homage of

the world, and render the founders illustrious. The magnificent tower, reach-

ing to the heavens, was intended to stand as a monument of the power and

wisdom of its builders, perpetuating their fame to the latest generations. . . .

The whole undertaking was designed to exalt still further the pride of its pro-

jectors, and to turn the minds of future generations away from God, and lead

them into

idolatry."—"Patriarchs and Prophets,"

p. 119.

Nature's Lesson of Divine Guidance

10.

By what illustrations does God indicate that the animal world is

instinctively more obedient than mankind? Jer. 8:7; Isa. 1:3.

NoTE.—Scientists have always had a difficult time in explaining the geo-

graphical distribution of the animals without some special divine guidance

after the Flood. We see many examples of the migration of birds, of butter-

flies, and of eels in our modern world; hence it is reasonable to suppose that

the peculiar circumstances confronting the animals as they came forth from

1321

the ark on the desolated earth, would call for some special manifestation of

divine guidance to scatter them abroad over the world. And it would be only

the usual thing if, while men were disobedient, the dumb brutes obeyed the

guiding call of their Creator.

11.

What lessons do all the things of nature teach the attentive child

of God? Job 12:7-9.

12.

How absolutely are both men and animals dependent upon the

Creator? Verse 10.

13.

What are some of the practical lessons that we may learn from the

ways in which the living things all, around us obey the guiding voice of the

Creator? Prov. 6:6-8; Matt. 6:26.

Lesson 13—September 23, 1939

This diagram for daily lesson study records only. Place a check mark in proper space.

SABBATH I SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY

Creation as a Part of the Last-Day Message

MEMORY VERSE: "Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His

judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and

the fountains of waters." Rev. 14:7.

STUDY HELP: "The Great Controversy," pp. 603-612 (new ed., pp. 681-691).

Introduction

The evolutionary theory has become a basic creed of life for the vast ma-

jority of educated people throughout the civilized world. Hence it is only

to be expected that God's special message for these days will be timed and

adapted to these modern conditions, this intellectual and religious crisis.

"Despite all superficial continuity, a remarkable change has come about

within the last seventy-five years. The change is nothing less than the sub-

stitution of paganism for Christianity as the dominant view of life. Seventy-

five years ago Western civilization, despite inconsistencies, was still predomi-

nantly Christian; today it is predominantly

pagan."—"Christianity and Lib-

eralism," Prof.

G. Machen,

p. 65.

The logical and literary symmetry of the Bible is missed entirely, if we fail

to see how the first part of God's Book is intimately connected with the last

part of it, and its complement. Not only does the last of Revelation deal with

a new heaven and a new earth, but the last gospel message to mankind is indis-

solubly connected with the record of creation (including the Sabbath) given

in the first chapters of Genesis. The final disposal of sin and sinners harks

back to—

". . man's first disobedience, and the fruit

Of that forbidden tree whose mortal taste

Brought death into the world, and all our woe."

Increased Knowledge to Speed Gospel Message

what

prophetic utterance foretells a great advance in scientific

knowledge in the last days? Dan. 12:4.

[ 33 ]

How is this increase of knowledge to be made use of in the procla-

mation of the gospel? Matt. 24:14.

Into what two parts is the gospel message, as adapted to the last

days, divided? Rev. 14:7.

Sabbath Reform Exalts God as Creator

In close connection with Isaiah's wonderful description of the Crea-

tor's power, what special message is Zion commanded to proclaim? Isa.

40:9.

For what time was this message intended? Verse 10.

NOTE.—This implies that the world in general will be ignoring the Creator

and His claims upon them; for God's messages are timely, always adapted to

meet some crisis in the life of mankind.

These verses in Isaiah 40 indicate that the knowledge of the Creator will

be lacking with most people in the latter days just prior to our Lord's return.

They call for the making known to men of God, the Creator of heaven and

earth, and for obedience to His commands. God's special messages are always

timely, but they are adapted to the condition of the times for which they are

specially given.

What memorial has God given to keep His creative power and His

claims upon their worship and obedience before the minds of men? Ex.

20:8-11; Ps. 111:4; 135:13.

NorE.—A reform on the Sabbath is specifically adapted to counteract the

modern widespread acceptance of the theory of evolution. Such a reform is

also clearly implied in Rev. 14:12.

Science "Falsely So Called" Leads to Idolatry

Christ repeatedly compared the intellectual attitude of the people

of the last days with that of the people in the days of Noah. Wherein are

the two periods said to be alike? Matt. 24:38, 39.

NorE.—The people of Noah's day are said

not to have known

"until the

Flood came, and took them all away;" although God's special warning had

been sounding in their ears for one hundred twenty years. This result followed

because these antediluvians were following "the teachings of a deceptive

philosophy," just as at the present time. Referring to the last days, we are

told: "Then, as in the world before the Flood, iniquity will prevail. Follow-

ing the promptings of their corrupt hearts and the teachings of a deceptive

philosophy, men will rebel against the authority of

Heaven."—"Patriarchs

and Prophets,"

p. 89.

What has been the result of the false science of our day, so far as the

Bible is concerned?

ANSWER.—A neglect of the Bible, with ignorance of its spiritual teachings,

on the part of most of mankind.

NOTE.—"A day of great intellectual darkness has been shown to be favor-

able to the success of the papacy. It will yet be demonstrated that a day of

great intellectual light is equally favorable for its success. In past ages, when

men were without God's word, and without the knowledge of the truth, their

eyes were blindfolded, and thousands were ensnared, not seeing the net spread

for their feet. In this generation there are many whose eyes become dazzled by

[84)

the glare of human speculations, 'science falsely so called;' they discern not the

net, and walk into it as readily as if blindfolded. God designed that man's

intellectual powers should be held as a gift from his Maker, and should be

employed in the service of truth and righteousness; but when pride and ambi-

tion are cherished, and men exalt their own theories above the word of God,

then intelligence can accomplish greater harm than ignorance. Thus the false

science of the present day, which undermines faith in the Bible, will prove

as successful in preparing the way for the acceptance of the papacy, with its

pleasing forms, as did the withholding of knowledge in opening the way for its

aggrandizement in the Dark Ages."—"The

Great Controversy,"

pp. 572, 573.

'What results inevitably follow when people cease to worship their

Creator? Rom. 1:21-23, 28.

10.

How is covetousness defined in Paul's letter to the Colossians?

Col. 3:5.

11.

How else may idolatry make itself manifest besides worship of gods

of gold, silver, wood, and stone?

AwswER.—"It is as easy to make an idol of false doctrines and theories as

to fashion an idol of wood or stone. By misrepresenting the attributes of God,

Satan leads men to conceive of Him in a false character. With many, a philo-

sophical idol is enthroned in the place of Jehovah; while the living God, as

He is revealed in His word, in Christ, and in the works of creation, is wor-

shiped by but few. Thousands deify nature, while they deny the God of

nature. Though in a different form, idolatry exists in the Christian world

today as verily as it existed among ancient Israel in the days of Elijah. The

god of many professedly wise men, of philosophers, poets, politicians, jour-

nalists,—the god of polished fashionable circles, of many colleges and univer-

sities, even of some theological institutions,—is little better than Baal, the sun-

god of Phoenicia."—"The

Great Controversy,"

p. 583.

12.

What picture does Isaiah give that accurately describes the world

in the last days? Isa. 2:7-9.

The Impending Doom of the Unrighteous

13.

How does Peter connect the rejection of the message about the sec-

ond coming of Christ with false scientific theories which deny the Flood and

turn creation into evolution? 2 Peter 3:3-7.

Nom—The leading teachers of evolution have been outspoken in scoffing

at the idea that the world is soon to end by destruction, predicting on the other

hand that man is destined to progress indefinitely in the future. Charles Dar-

win, in the very closing sentences of his "Origin of Species," argues (just as

Peter predicted) that since no great cataclysm has ever desolated the whole

world, "we may look with some confidence to a secure future of great length.

And as natural selection works solely by and for the good of each being, all

corporeal and mental endowments will tend to progress toward perfection."

This boundless, unreasoning optimism was a favorite theme of Herbert

Spencer: "Progress is not an accident but a necessity. What we call evil and

immorality must disappear. It is certain that man must become perfect."

Again Spencer says: "The ultimate development of the ideal in man is

certain,—as certain as any conclusion in which we place the utmost faith; for

instance, that all men will die."

[ 86

14. What solemn warning is given in Ezekiel regarding God's dealings

with the idolaters of the last days? Ezek. 8:15, 16; 9:4-6, 11.

NorE.—It is evident that the special light which we now have on the sub-

ject of creation has been designed by God to enable us in these days to appre-

ciate what it means to have a Creator, what it is to be creatures, in a truer

way than could be appreciated by those of other days. We cannot doubt that

these truths have been brought to our attention at this time to aid us in carry-

ing to the world the message of Revelation 14:7, and to help us to proclaim

the Sabbath "more fully," as predicted in "Early Writings," page 85, new

edition.

Lesson 14—September 30, 1939

This diagram for daily lesson study records only. Place a check mark in proper space.

FRIDAY

SABBATH

The Only Path to Safety

MEMORY VERSE: "Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is Truth."

John 17:17.

STUDY HELP: "Steps to Christ," pp. 89-96.

Introduction

"None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible

will stand through the last great conflict."—"The

Great Controversy,"

p. 593.

"The infinite mercy and love of Jesus, the sacrifice made in our behalf, call

for the most serious and solemn reflection. We should dwell upon the char-

acter of our dear Redeemer and Intercessor. We should meditate upon the

mission of Him who came to save His people from their sins. As we thus con-

template heavenly themes, our faith and love will grow stronger, and our

prayers will be more and more acceptable to God, because they will be more

and more mixed with faith and love. They will be intelligent and fervent.

There will be more constant confidence in Jesus, and a daily, living experience

in His power to save to the uttermost all that come unto God by Him."—

"Steps to Christ,"

pp. 93, 94.

The Knowledge of God

In what beautiful words does the apostle picture the joy of know-

ing God? Rom.

11:33.

NoTE.—"There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than

the study of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts,

to give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If

God's word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind,

a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose that is rarely seen in these

times."—"Steps to Christ,"

pp. 94, 95.

How does the apostle express his own positive knowledge of the real-

ity of Christ? 2 Tim. 1:12.

NOTE.—The scene is in a Roman prison. The missionary apostle is soon

to die. But here is no discouragement. Instead: "This man of faith beholds

[ 86

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY

the ladder of Jacob's vision, representing Christ, who has connected earth

with heaven, and finite men with the infinite God. His faith is strengthened

as he calls to mind how patriarchs and prophets have relied upon the One

who is his support and consolation, and for whom he is giving his life. From

these holy men who from century to. century have borne testimony for their

faith, he hears the assurance that God is true. His fellow apostles, who, to

preach the gospel of Christ, went forth to meet religious bigotry and heathen

superstition, persecution, -and contempt, who counted not their lives dear unto

themselves that they might bear aloft the light of the cross amidst the dark

mazes of infidelity,—these he hears witnessing to Jesus as the Son of God, the

Saviour of the world."—"The

Acts of the' Apostles,"

p. 512.

What had a knowledge of God through the Scriptures done for the

youthful Timothy? 2 Tim. 3:15-17.

•

Faith in Christ as Our Personal Saviour

Acceptance of whom alone makes salvation possible? Acts 4:12;

Matt. 1:21.

To how many did Jesus come to bring salvation? John 1:29.

Concerning Himself, what does He declare? John 14:6.

What treasures are to be found in accepting and knowing Christ as

Saviour? Col. 2:3.

NoTE.—"Jesus Christ is the knowledge of the Father, and Christ is our

great teacher sent from God. Christ has declared in the sixth chapter of John

that He is that bread sent down from heaven. 'Verily, verily, I say unto you,

He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life. I am that bread of life.'"

"Christ came in the form of humanity to live the law of God. He was the

word of life. He came to be the gospel of salvation to the world, and to fulfill

every specification of the law. Jesus is the word, the guidebook, which must

be received and obeyed in every particular. How necessary that this mine of

truth be explored, and the precious treasures of truth be discovered and se-

cured as rich

jewels."—"Fundamentals of Christian Education,"

pp. 383, 385.

If Christ be in us, with what will our hearts and minds be filled?

Eph. 3:17-19.

Love for the Truth

What danger lurks today even in the church environment? 2 Tim.

4:4; Rom. 1:25.

NOTE.—"God will have a people upon the earth to maintain the Bible, and

the Bible only, as the standard of all doctrines, and the basis of all reforms.

The opinions of learned men, the deductions of science, the creeds or decisions

of ecclesiastical councils, as numerous and discordant as are the churches

which they represent, the voice of the majority,—not one nor all of these

should be regarded as evidence for or against any point of religious faith. . . .

"Satan is constantly endeavoring to attract attention to man in the place

of God. He leads the people to look to bishops, to pastors, to professors of

theology, as their guides, instead of searching the Scriptures to learn their duty

for themselves. Then, by controlling the minds of these leaders, he can influ-

ence the multitudes according to his

will."—"The Great Controversy,"

p. 595.

10.

For what did Christ pray? John 17:17.

( 37 1

11.

By what will all men eventually be judged? Ps. 96:13.

NoTE.—Men will be judged in the last day by their acceptance or rejection

of the truths of God. His righteous standards will be the measuring rod of

that day when every man must appear before the judgment seat. He who

is Himself the way, the truth, and the life will stand as advocate for those who

have received Him. How happy the state of those who have learned to know

Him "whom to know is life everlasting."

Strict Obedience Essential

12.

How fully will one who knows the truth be obedient? 2 Cor. 10:5.

13.

Who

will first be judged? Who stand in greatest danger? 1 Peter

4:17.

NoTE.—"Every man's work passes in review before God, and is registered

for faithfulness or unfaithfulness. Opposite each name in the books of heaven •

is entered, with terrible exactness, every wrong word, every selfish act, every

unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin, with every artful dissembling. Heaven-

sent warnings or reproofs neglected, wasted moments, unimproved opportuni-

ties, the influence exerted for good or for evil, with its far-reaching results, all

are chronicled by the recording angel."—"The

Great Controversy,"

p. 482.

"In the typical service, only those who had come before God with con-

fession and repentance, and whose sins, through the blood of the sin offering,

were transferred to the sanctuary, had a part in the service of the Day of

Atonement. So in the great day of final atonement and investigative judg-

ment, the only cases considered are those of the professed people of God. The

judgment of the wicked is a distinct and separate work, and takes place at a

later period."—Id., p. 480.

14.

What will be characteristic of the remnant, or last-day church of

God? Rev. 12:17; 14:12.

Faithful at All Costs

15.

If unbelieving, what may we expect? Heb. 3:18.

NOTE.-Of Israel, God swore that those who failed to believe or refused to

accept of His commands should not enter into His rest. Only the faithful, souls

whose loyalty to principle is unquestioned and apparent to God and men,

may enter into the rest of God. "The wicked are like the troubled sea, when

it cannot rest. . . . There is no peace . . . to the wicked." Isa. 57:20, 21.

Loyalty, faithfulness, obedience bring peace to the soul, and that peace is en-

hanced and will be glorified in His kingdom of peace where we "shall run, and

not be weary ; and . . . shall walk, and not faint." Isa. 40:31.

16.

What constancy is essential to the saving of the soul? Heb. 10:39.

17.

What blessed promises are made to those who, having believed and

accepted Christ, remain faithful? Rev. 2:10, 25-28; 3:11.

NoTE.—The "overcomer" is promised life eternal. They who are faithful

receive the crown of life. It is in holding fast that the test comes in human

life. All God's promises are to these loyal, faithful ones. Those who on the sea

of glass sing the song of Moses and the Lamb will have come "out of great

tribulation." As Christ came into this world by personal choice to endure the

scorn and rejection of men, to suffer, to die, so He expects of His followers

that when called upon they should ol

low in His steps. But in return, it is

theirs to receive the fulfillment of all His promises.

[881

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Foreign countries where extra postage is required: Single copy

1 year, $1.10 ; two or more copies to one address, each,95 cents.

"The Spirit of the Teacher"

By Mrs. L. Flora Plummer. This took sets forth the graces

of character to which all Christians should attain. Bound

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AFRICAN MISSION

OF THE

NORTHERN EUROP

DIVISION

THE THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING

September 30, 1939

Our mission responsibility for this quarter is the East and West

African mission fields of the Northern European Division, as seen by

the accompanying map. In this territory live fifty-seven million people.

The greatest need of these fields so far as our denominational work is

concerned is the training of African workers and teachers. In order to

train such workers, we need to establish training schools under com-

petent leadership, and to provide the necessary equipment.

When we gave to this same mission field the fourth quarter of 1937,

the Thirteenth Sabbath offering amounted to $93,080.02; thus there was

an "overflow" of $8,616, which went to this needy field. The gifts of

our loyal Sabbath school members, which made this overflow possible,

were greatly appreciated, and it is hoped as we give again to East and

West Africa, the hearts of our people will be touched to give liberally

of their means.

When the Thirteenth Sabbath offering reaches $60,000, remember

there is an overflow of $2,000. Our Sabbath school members can make

this overflow as large as they wish, for it is increased by 20 per cent of all

that is given beyond $60,000. Let every member do his best to help

toward the training of workers and teachers in this African field.

uTn]